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Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 2-4-- One of the more successful books in this series. Venezia offers fine reproductions of full-color paintings judiciously arranged. They not only capture attention with splendid water scenes and a few portraits, but also demonstrate the developing techniques of impressionism and show examples of the haystacks and water lilies that occupied Monet's last years. Venezia still seeks a youthful idiom, using the word "fun" to explain why artists paint and, again, describing the "fun" of painting outdoors. Half a dozen cartoons with slapstick humor are interjected in the book in an effort to show readers that art can be "fun" for them too. However, such lighthearted hooks are more subdued than in earlier books and, in Monet , might be dispensed with altogether, for the paintings are grand, and Venezia has developed a sure feeling for pace and tone in moving from picture to picture to carry out his intent of explaining who Monet was, how he lived, and why it is that he is, indeed, one of the world's greatest artists. Christine Bjork's Linnea in Monet's Garden (Farrar, 1987) is still beyond compare as an introduction to Monet's mature work, but Venezia's book is directed to a slightly younger child, who may then appreciate Bjork's description of Giverny even more. --Shirley Wilton, Ocean County College, Toms River, NJCopyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

"The excellent-quality reproductions do a great deal to enhance and extend the text."
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

Mike Venezia knows how to introduce an artist. Along with background information and an excellent selection of the artists most well-known works, Venezia treats the reader to his humorous and sometimes offbeat cartoons. These books, however, are no joke. They incorporate art history, concepts, and appreciation. Like potato chips, you can't own just one, you have to buy the set. Be sure to read the little Author/Illustrator notation on the back cover for a final chuckle.

I used this book to introduce a group of preschoolers to Monet and Impressionism and they loved it. It's not difficult for them to understand, and it's not too long to read while keeping their attention.

Monet's life and work come to life with Venezia's sense of humor. Many color reproductions of Monet's work contrast Venezia's silly cartoons, which appeal to children. Adults enjoy and learn here also.

This series by Mike Venezia is BRILLIANT!! I love the way he writes - so easy to read. He includes pertinent information, lots of the artist's drawings, and cartoons that make the material fun. The books are read alones for 3rd grade+ but my 4 year old enjoys heraing me read these books. What a fantastic way to introduce artists to young kids when they are still so interested and unbiased! I as an adult learned things too. We own various from this wonderful series!!